“I’m sure he enjoys it but they fight over who gets to be with him and they can’t wait. He’s so respectful of what they need and their struggles and he’s encouraging and just a real positive role model,” said Mrs. Thennis.

Bighorns head coach Bob Richards says the team encourages players to engage in the community.

“It gives these guys here a chance to kind of help out and be able to see an impact they can have on the younger kids’ lives … and when they see smiles on the kid’s faces it basically makes everybody’s day better,” said Coach Richards.

Dane says he wants to attend Montana State and study nursing. For now, he looks forward to time spent helping children learn.

“As time’s gone on I’ve been able to do more with the kids so that’s been good. It’s fun to see the kids so happy. It’s really good for them,” said Dane.